A building fitted with glazed windows is prone to issues like condensation forming in between panes. If ignored, it may lead to severe problems like heat loss and pose a security risk.
Fortunately, there are solutions to these problems. In most cases, they are easy to detect and repair. In addition, a DIY enthusiast with some experience with windows can also fix the window.
In this guide, we shall discuss the repair cost of a blown window, factors influencing the cost of repair, additional charges and how to DIY.
How much does it cost to repair a single window?
The average cost of repairing a single panned window in the UK is approximately £100, while a double-glazed window ranges from £200, and a triple-glazed window is over £350.
Depending on how you want the window repaired, replacing a double glazed misted window can vary from £60 -£400. The price will increase depending on the unit’s condition and if the blown window needs additional repairs, as it’s common to find damaged frames.
If you’re planning a DIY, below are some cost estimates depending on the window’s size.
| Window size(mm) | Average cost |
|---|---|
| 1200mm x 1200mm | £250 – £900 |
| 1000 x 1000mm | £200 – £550 |
| 500mm x 500mm | £150 – £500 |
However, if you plan on calling a professional fitter, below are some of the cost estimates depending on the window type.
| Type of window | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Large double-glazed bay opener window | £600-£850 |
| Large triple-glazed bow fixed window | £350 – £400 |
| Standard double-glazed bay opener window | £275-£325 |
| Standard double-glazed bay fixed window | £200-£250 |
| Small single-glazed opener sash window | £150-£200 |
| Small single-glazed fixed sash window | £100-£150 |
Labour costs
The average price a tradesperson will charge for repairing a large window will range from £100 to £175 depending on the works’ complexity. For example, it may take up to six hours to repair a large, double-glazed bay opener window, while a small single-glazed fixed sash window can take up to 40minutes.
Other factors, such as the size of the windows, affect the price. The larger the window, the more labourers are required. A 500mm x 500mm window frame gets charged at least £75 per frame. A complete softwood wooden window replacement is £75 per frame, while a hardwood replacement will go up to £85 per frame and a glass replacement is £20 per unit.
Additional costs
- After the window replacement, they require a few finishes, which may cost extra money. However, they are optional but recommended.
- You may opt for a cheaper window frame, priced from £500 to £800, and the white uPVC priced at £250 to £750. There are other options like aluminium frames which are priced at £550 to £1,000 per window, while wood frames have an average cost of £600 to £1,500 per window.
- For the proper opening of the window, you will need the right handles. There are various options to choose from, including but not limited to: Other costs to include are sealants which differ in price depending on the brand and type to use. For instance, a polymer’s standard price is £6 per 100ml while silicone is sold at £1 per 100ml.
- Finally, you should consider adding security features such as bars. They are generally priced at £30 each. It would also be wise to invest in a tougher glass and add £35 on each window being replaced or invest in a window recording security camera whose cost starts from £200 to £300.
Reasons for replacing a blown window
A blown window presents a dim view of the outside world. If not replaced, the window might present health issues to you and the people around because of the cold air getting trapped in the windows. It may result in the growth of moulds which could lead to respiratory diseases or poisoning.
- Lack of insulation
Single, double or triple glazed windows offer insulation to your home, whereas blown windows allow cold air to leak in, especially during the night and winter when heat preservation should be at the peak.
- Increased heat loss
If the blown windows are not replaced, your energy bills are bound to go up as heat trickles out, making your home draughty.
- Cloudy window
A blown window creates an unattractive exterior. It will make your window look cloudy, dirty and condensed. It would be necessary to replace the windows to enhance the look of your home.
- Reduce noise pollution.
For the folks living in the urban areas, sound pollution caused by traffic and the movement of people may affect your privacy at home. Having the window replaced will shut out the noise, thus enhancing your peace and quiet around your home.
Causes of blown windows
- Window deterioration(old windows)
- Poorly installed windows.
- Damaged window seals either by accident or poor quality, leading to wear and tear.
- Use of extremely harsh cleaning chemicals.
How to clean freshly installed windows
Cleaning your windows after a replacement will brighten up your home and improve the exterior look. If the windows are in your home, you can always DIY using some of these tips:
- You can mix water and vinegar to clean your windows as it ensures no streaks are left behind while wiping. In addition, avoid using a kitchen towel as it can leave some of its fibre on the freshly cleaned windows.
- You can make your window-friendly soap using some of the dishwashing soap and clean your windows.
- After cleaning, it’s important to pat them dry to avoid streaks of soap, washing cloth or water.
- You can also add some surgical spirit in your water to help in leaving a streak-free window.
On the other hand, if you choose to have your windows cleaned by a professional window cleaner, the price is charged per hour, ranging from £20 to £50. It is also dependent on your area of residence, the number of windows and the cleaning materials.
Building regulation
Some changes were done regarding fixing windows in homes around the UK covering safety precautions, ventilation, means of escape and air supply and thermal performance. They must follow the following standards:
- For windows in unprotected areas, they are required to be fire-resistant.
- The size of a replaced window should not be smaller than 450mm in height and width with an open area of more than 0.33 square metres and a cill height of no more than 110mm above the floor.
- Trickle ventilation should be installed in areas with more steam.
- For a new installation, it should provide better energy efficiency than the previous window.
In conclusion, you can replace blown windows by yourself or a professional. However, it is essential to note that external windows require certification and can be given to you by a tradesman. If you DIY, you can apply for the certification upon completion from your local governing body. Depending on the location, the cost of a certificate may vary.
These prices are just estimates.
